Black Horse corner

ABOUT

A village lost but not forgotten. Step into a vanished rural crossroads where only traces remain. It’s the story of a once-thriving hamlet in North Dumfries Township (Ontario) centred around the Black Horse Inn (1853-75) and offers a fascinating glimpse into Waterloo Region’s early settlement and the forces that led to its disappearance. 

At its peak, Black Horse Corner was an important stopping place for travelers, farmers, tradespeople, and local families, with several businesses and approximately 20 houses.

Today, just three of the original structures remain — three outbuildings from that era: a barn, smokehouse and stone-built former cheese factory from 1835.

For the past several decades, the site has been owned and farmed by the Stager family, who have passionately advocated for the conservation of these heritage buildings, and for the preservation of the history and stories of Black Horse Corner.

EXPLORE BLACK HORSE CORNER

Enjoy a rare opportunity to visit Black Horse Corners and explore the remaining buildings during the 2026 edition of Doors Open Waterloo Region on Saturday, September 19 from 10am - 4pm.

DIG DEEPER

Discover more about Black Horse Corner by accessing resources provided by Jeff Stager. They include archive photos and documents, and the 1991 Archeological Report of the excavation and analysis conducted of the Black Horse Inn Complex and surrounding areas focusing on heritage mitigation prior to pipeline construction.